The Business College will celebrate its 120th graduation at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at Harts Hill Inn, 135 Clinton St., Whitesboro; 86 students will receive degrees giving USC the distinction of celebrating more than 10,000 graduates since its inception in 1896.USC specializes in meeting the personal needs of the non-traditional student. Many students who come to USC work full-time, have families to support and don’t believe a college degree can happen for them. Backed by an understanding of students’ life circumstances, USC has created an environment that addresses these needs and beliefs.
Juan Rucker, 45, of Utica, is one student who benefited from USC’s specialized programs. Two years ago, Rucker, a Marine Corps veteran, was homeless and believed a college degree impossible.
That belief since has vanished. Juan will graduate Thursday and receive his associate’s degree in business administration. He credits the support, flexibility and encouragement from USC staff and faculty to this significant life change.
“Without a degree, I could not move forward with my life,” said Rucker, who will assist men like him working with the VA in Syracuse and Working Solutions. “USC opening their doors and accepting me, granted me that opportunity to just look further – at anything.”